Patti Neumann, CEO/Chief Social Thinker of Baltimore’s CITYPEEK.com, can be reached at patti@citypeek.com[1] or CITYPEEK Patti on facebook/twitter/linkedIn/Instagram.

Remember the days of the monthly magazine? You know, as an advertiser, you had to create and submit an ad up to 8 weeks prior to publication and it runs for an entire month. For example, torun an ad in the November edition, the artwork would have been due in beginning of September. But, what if by the time the magazine hits the stands, the item, say a house for sale or a hotel or restaurant deal, is no longer on the market or available?

Fast forward to today’s world of instant gratification, social media and real-time chatter as the World Wide Web is open for business all the time. Simply place a posting on Twitter or Facebook, the response is immediate, real-time and, it is a 24-7 industry. There is no time to waste. There are deals to be had and immediate needs to be found and met. And best of all, social media networks like Facebook, Twitter and Linked In are free.

Smart businesses have one individual who responds to every social networking tweet, post and photo upload. This helps improve relationship building with their guests and helps make their brand accessible, friendly and top-of-mind.

Some good examples I saw recently from my local Business Owners:

@AIPAC could have placed an ad for $5,000 per page per chosen city in magazines and newspapers. Instead it tweeted: To our Jewish friends and families...Shana Tova! Let this next year be one of peace, heath and happiness for all. pic.twitter.com/hCOn9JwYB1[2]”

Restaurants garner immediate attention with their fans and followers promoting their daily deals. Search and “follow” on twitter or click the “Like” thumbs up button on Facebook to get immediate deals and specials from your favorite spots and brands. Some recent Facebook restaurant and chef posts:

Miller’s Deli “Happy Holiday's to all. Corned Beef, Brisket & Matzo Ball love to a healthy, sweet, New Year! Remember, we are now also open in Towson!”

Constantly, I learn about news as it is happening like Stuggy's Hot Dogs[6] Is ready to open a new location in Federal Hill. They are hiring per their post “Hiring for Fed Hill only three spots left. Seeking Cashier and cooks! Email us” I might suggest a linked in profile for job postings also.

You can be the first to get the scoop from your favorite people and brands on social networking avenues. Simply post or search and follow/like other business’ posts on Twitter (@CitypeekPatti) or Facebook LIKE (CITYPEEK Patti) or the business-to-business social tool, LinkedIn. I just posted a new ipad for sale. I posted a tweet and Facebook post @citypeekpatti and it garnered immediate interest. Connect with me (search CITYPEEK Patti) on social networks for immediate response. Try it.